STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Penn State University has officially dismissed head football coach James Franklin following the team’s third straight loss, marking a stunning midseason shakeup in Happy Valley.
The Nittany Lions, who entered the 2025 season ranked No. 2 nationally, have fallen to 3–3 after a string of disappointing performances — including a narrow 22–21 home loss to Northwestern.
In the aftermath, cornerbacks coach Terry Smith has been appointed interim head coach while the university evaluates long-term leadership options.
The decision comes amid growing frustration from fans and alumni as the program’s championship hopes quickly unraveled. Adding to the team’s struggles, starting quarterback Drew Allar suffered a season-ending injury during the Northwestern game, deepening the sense of urgency for change.
Penn State now faces a critical turning point as it looks to stabilize the program and refocus heading into the second half of the season.
Stay with FirstSourceNews.net for continuing updates on Penn State’s coaching change and the future of the Nittany Lions football program
